#academy_awards

Leonardo DiCaprio Breaks Tradition by Attending Oscars with Girlfriend Vittoria Ceretti Leonardo DiCaprio made headlines at the 98th Academy Awards by deviating from his longtime habit of attending the ceremony with his mother, Irmelin. The 51-year-old actor, nominated for Best Actor for his role in One Battle After Another, walked the red carpet alone in a sleek black tuxedo and bow tie. However, he chose to sit with his girlfriend, Vittoria Ceretti, during the event, marking their first joint appearance at the Oscars as a couple. This decision sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many celebrating the couple’s debut at the prestigious ceremony. DiCaprio, known for his private approach to personal relationships, had previously attended award shows with his mother, who has been a steadfast supporter throughout his career. This year’s choice to bring Ceretti, the 27-year-old Italian model he has been dating for two years, signaled a shift in his public persona. Ceretti, dressed in a striking burgundy gown with her hair styled up, joined DiCaprio inside the theater. The couple’s presence at the Oscars, a platform typically reserved for industry professionals, highlighted their growing public visibility. While DiCaprio has historically avoided romantic speculation, this appearance suggested a willingness to share his personal life, albeit selectively. The actor’s relationship with Ceretti has remained largely out of the spotlight. Their bond was further solidified during a private moment at the wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez Bezos in Venice, where they were seen openly expressing affection. Despite their public outings, the couple had never attended an awards ceremony together until this year.#academy_awards #leonardo_dicaprio #vittoria_ceretti #irmelin #milan_fashion_week

Oscar Night’s Biggest Loser Was Hulu as Viewers Run Into One Issue After Another Viewers attempting to watch the Academy Awards faced significant frustration as the ceremony became inaccessible on the Hulu/Disney+ app, despite being heavily advertised as available through the platform. While the red carpet coverage for the event was streamed on the combined Hulu/Disney+ app, the main awards ceremony itself was nowhere to be found, leaving audiences scrambling for alternative ways to tune in. The confusion stemmed from the app’s structure, which required users to access the live event through a specific, more expensive version of Hulu—Hulu Live—rather than the standard subscription. This led to widespread criticism on social media, with users expressing disappointment over the logistical hurdles. One user tweeted, “I’m going to be very happy when the Oscars go to YouTube.” They added, “It was advertised as being on Hulu. But as it turns out, not your basic Hulu… just the super expensive Hulu live, or whatever that is. I had to get a free trial of Fubo to watch.” Another viewer lamented the cost and inconvenience, stating, “What’s the point of having Disney+ and Hulu when you can’t watch the Oscars unless you have a regular Hulu account. Why pay twice for something that I already have smh.” The situation highlighted the disconnect between the platform’s marketing and its actual functionality, as users were left with limited options to access the event. The primary workaround involved downloading Hulu separately, though this was discouraged for those already subscribed to Disney+. Attempting to access the app through devices or computers often resulted in error messages, further complicating the process.#fubo #disney_plus #academy_awards #hulu #youtube_tv

Anne Hathaway Commands the Oscars 2026 Red Carpet in a Stunning Floral Mermaid Gown Anne Hathaway made a striking entrance at the 98th Academy Awards, taking center stage with a bold, floral-inspired mermaid gown that captured the attention of attendees and viewers alike. Styled by her longtime collaborator Erin Walsh, the dress featured a deep midnight black base adorned with vibrant pink floral prints, creating a striking contrast that emphasized both elegance and drama. The strapless, floor-sweeping design was complemented by a bold black belt at the waist, which helped balance the flared skirt and dramatic train, ensuring the silhouette remained sharp and refined. The ensemble was further elevated by a dazzling array of accessories, including Bvlgari’s new Eclettica High Jewelry collection. The diamond necklace and matching earrings shone brightly, adding a touch of opulence to the look. Anne also opted for black opera-length gloves, which lent the outfit a timeless, sophisticated finish. Her makeup was intentionally soft, with a pink eyeshadow that mirrored the floral patterns on her gown, creating a cohesive and polished appearance. Beyond the fashion, Anne’s presence at the event carried significant cultural weight. Though she was not nominated for an award this year, her role as a presenter alongside high-profile figures like Paul Mescal and Priyanka Chopra Jonas underscored her continued influence in the industry. The evening also buzzed with anticipation for the upcoming sequel to The Devil Wears Prada, with rumors of a potential reunion skit involving Hathaway and the film’s original cast. Her appearance marked a seamless transition from her early career as a rising star to her current status as a fashion icon.#academy_awards #anne_hathaway #erin_walsh #bvlgari #devil_wears_prada

Mr. Wonderful’s Oscars Red Carpet Moment Sparks Viral Reaction Kevin O’Leary, known as Mr. Wonderful from Shark Tank, made headlines for his unusual appearance at the Academy Awards, where he drew widespread attention for his behavior and outfit. The Canadian businessman-turned-actor, who recently starred in the Best Picture nominee Marty Supreme, was spotted on the red carpet in a strikingly flashy ensemble. His outfit included a highly reflective jacket and a necklace estimated to be worth over $20 million, featuring a Kobe Bryant/Michael Jordan logo, 100 carats of diamonds, and 10 carats of rubies. O’Leary, who is not nominated for his role in Marty Supreme, took to the Oscars with a mix of confidence and eccentricity. His presence sparked immediate reactions online, with many viewers expressing confusion and amusement. Some questioned why he was at the event, while others praised his bold fashion choices. The situation gained further attention when O’Leary revealed he had placed a $1,000 bet on Timotheé Chalamet to win the Best Actor Oscar. “I just put a thousand bucks on Kalshi, walking in here, that he’s gonna win,” O’Leary told Variety, adding that he believed the voting process had concluded before the controversy surrounding Chalamet’s nomination. The clip of O’Leary’s appearance quickly went viral, with social media users sharing their thoughts. Some joked about the absurdity of his presence, referencing his past controversies, including a legal issue involving a film. Others praised the moment as a rare glimpse into the intersection of celebrity and commerce. The viral reaction highlighted the public’s fascination with high-profile figures and their unexpected appearances at major events.#academy_awards #timothe_chalamet #marty_supreme #kevin_oleary #shark_tank

AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH Wins Oscar for Visual Effects The 98th Academy Awards ceremony awarded the Oscar for Visual Effects to AVATAR: FIRE AND ASH. The film’s team of artists and technicians, including Joe Letteri, Richard Baneham, Eric Saindon, and Daniel Barrett, accepted the award during the event. The recognition highlights the film’s groundbreaking work in creating immersive digital environments and advanced visual effects. The win marks a significant achievement for the franchise, which has consistently pushed the boundaries of cinematic technology. The ceremony took place on March 15, 2026, with the award being presented in a segment that showcased the creative process behind the film’s visually stunning sequences. The team’s ability to blend cutting-edge technology with artistic storytelling was praised by industry professionals and audiences alike. This accolade adds to the film’s growing list of honors, further cementing its place as a landmark in visual effects innovation. The award also underscores the collaborative effort required to bring such complex projects to life, with each member of the team contributing to the final result. The ceremony’s focus on technical excellence reflects the Academy’s ongoing commitment to celebrating advancements in filmmaking. As the film continues to receive acclaim, its success in the visual effects category serves as a testament to the power of creativity and technological mastery in modern cinema.#academy_awards #avatar_fire_and_ash #jo_letteri #richard_baneham #eric_saindon

F1 Proves the Oscars Have Too Many Best Picture Nominees The Academy Award nomination for F1 has sparked widespread debate about the growing number of Best Picture contenders. The film, starring Brad Pitt, is a high-grossing blockbuster that blends action, spectacle, and Hollywood-style entertainment. While praised for its execution, critics argue it lacks depth, with shallow character development, wooden dialogue, and a plot that feels predictable from the start. The movie’s success—both at the box office and in theaters—has raised questions about why such a formulaic film should be considered a serious contender for the highest honor in cinema. The Academy’s decision to expand the Best Picture category from five to ten nominees has long been a point of contention. Historically, the category was limited to five films, a manageable number that allowed for meaningful comparisons between years. For example, debates over 1974’s The Godfather Part II, Chinatown, and The Conversation versus 1976’s Taxi Driver, All the President’s Men, and Network became cultural touchstones. The shift to ten nominees, however, has diluted the prestige of the category. Critics argue that films like F1—which rely on visual thrills rather than narrative complexity—should not share the same stage as more artistically ambitious works. The Oscars’ expanded nominee list reflects broader changes in the film industry. With streaming dominating viewership, fewer people attend theaters, and studios have shifted focus toward big-budget spectacles. This trend has led to a decline in mid-budget dramas and indie films, which once defined the Oscar landscape. The rise of franchises and franchise-like storytelling has further eroded the diversity of nominees.#academy_awards #brad_pitt #f1 #ms_now #top_gun

Oscars 2026: Conan O’Brien hosts the ceremony, takes opening shots at AI and Timothée Chalamet Conan O’Brien opened the 98th Academy Awards with a self-deprecating joke about his role as the last human host, joking that next year’s ceremony would be hosted by a Waymo self-driving car in a tuxedo. The comedian, 62, took the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood for the ABC telecast, delivering his opening remarks with a mix of humor and reflection. “I am Conan O’Brien and I am honored to be the last human host of the Academy Awards,” he said, referencing the growing influence of artificial intelligence. The opening segment featured a pre-recorded bit in which O’Brien donned Amy Madigan’s iconic “Aunt Gladys” makeup from the film Weapons, a role that earned her an Academy Award for best supporting actress just minutes earlier. The clip showed O’Brien being chased by angry children, a nod to Gladys’s character in the movie. The segment then transitioned into animated clips, with O’Brien appearing in KPop Demon Hunters, playing table tennis against Timothée Chalamet in Marty Supreme, and running across a Shakespearean stage in Hamnet. O’Brien’s hosting duties were met with high security, as he joked about the event’s safety measures. “It’s his first time in a theater!” he quipped, referencing the audience’s presence. The comedian, who previously hosted the Oscars in 2025, was rehired after a three-year gap during which the ceremony lacked a host. This year’s event marked a return to stability for the Academy Awards, which had faced uncertainty about its hosting format. O’Brien’s return to the role came after a year of preparation, during which he avoided the disruptions of the 2025 wildfires that displaced him in Los Angeles.#conan_obrien #academy_awards #amy_madigan #timothe_chalamet #waymo

Amy Madigan Walks the Oscars Red Carpet With Husband Ed Harris—40 Years After Their First Attendance Amy Madigan made a striking entrance at the 98th Academy Awards, arriving in a bold Dior ensemble that included a blazer adorned with black-and-gold feather paillettes, paired with black slacks and pointy pumps. She also wore round glasses with bright-orange lenses, adding a fiery touch to her look. The actor, known for her role as Gladys in Weapons, received a nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role, marking a historic moment as she became the female actor with the largest gap between nominations. Her previous nod was in the same category in 1986 for her role as Sunny Mackenzie-Sobel in Twice in a Lifetime. Madigan reflected on the achievement in an interview with People, expressing surprise at the journey that led to this milestone. She credited the film Weapons and its reception by audiences, stating, “Nothing is a better feeling than that.” She also emphasized the importance of perseverance in the industry, noting that while dreams are often encouraged, the path to success is long and demanding. “When a good piece of material comes by, the actors want to grab it by the throat. It’s exciting. That’s why we do what we do.” The evening’s event was a full-circle moment for Madigan, as she walked the red carpet alongside her husband, Ed Harris, who had accompanied her to the 1986 Oscars when she first received her nomination. The couple, married for 42 years, shared the moment with their son, who was also present. Harris, known for his own acting career, has been a constant presence in Madigan’s life, both on and off the screen. Madigan’s return to the Oscars after four decades of absence highlighted her enduring presence in Hollywood.#weapons #academy_awards #amy_madigan #oscar_nomination #ed_harris

Jessie Buckley’s home town abuzz before Oscars Excitement in Killarney is reaching a fever pitch as the actor prepares to face the world’s most prestigious stage. If Buckley wins the Oscar for best actress on Sunday night, County Kerry will have no need for further proof of a long-held belief: being born in this part of Ireland is the greatest gift one could ever receive. The award would recognize her performance in Hamnet, but for Killarney, her hometown in the county known as the Kingdom, the credit will stretch back to her childhood, when she first acted in local plays. “Hollywood here we come!” declared Kerry’s Eye, a local newspaper, capturing the sense that Buckley’s journey to the 98th Academy Awards has been a collective effort fueled by her talent, determination, and deep roots. The writer John B. Keane once humorously described Kerry heritage as a divine gift with “awesome responsibility”—a sentiment that could be validated if Buckley becomes the first Irish woman to win the award. Sinead Van Bladel, a supermarket worker who crafted Buckley masks for her colleagues, said, “Everyone will tune in—she’s one of our own.” Bookmakers have positioned Buckley as the overwhelming favorite, ahead of Rose Byrne, Emma Stone, Kate Hudson, and Renate Reinsve, for her portrayal of William Shakespeare’s wife, Agnes Hathaway, in the film adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel. Only two Irish women have previously won acting Oscars: Brenda Fricker in 1990 for My Left Foot and Maureen O’Hara, who received an honorary Oscar in 2014. For Buckley’s family and friends, the anticipation is tinged with an unspoken question: what if she doesn’t win? “Oh God, the disappointment. We’d of course still be proud, but can you imagine the anticlimax?” said one, who declined to be named. “I don’t want to be blamed for putting a hex on it.#academy_awards #jessie_buckley #killarney #kerry #michel_martin

The tightest race in years: Predictions for the 98th Academy Awards The 98th Academy Awards, set for Sunday, are shaping up as one of the most fiercely contested events in recent memory. With multiple films vying for top honors and actors competing for major categories, the night promises to deliver surprises and standout performances. As the film industry continues to thrive in theaters, the awards ceremony will highlight the year’s most impactful storytelling. Among the most anticipated races is the Best Picture category, where "One Battle After Another" faces stiff competition from "Sinners." Paul Thomas Anderson’s long-awaited film, which explores complex themes of family and societal conflict, is expected to dominate the night. Its ensemble cast, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Benicio del Toro, and Sean Penn, is seen as a key factor in its favor. Meanwhile, "Sinners," directed by Ryan Coogler, is tipped to win Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan, who delivers a dual performance as twins with distinct emotional arcs. In the Best Actress race, Jessie Buckley’s role in "Hamnet" is considered a near-lock after sweeping precursor awards. Her portrayal of a grieving mother is described as emotionally resonant and pivotal to the film’s success. For Best Actor, Michael B. Jordan’s performance in "Sinners" is highlighted as a breakthrough, with critics praising his ability to balance two contrasting characters. Paul Thomas Anderson is also predicted to win Best Director for "One Battle After Another," with analysts noting his meticulous craftsmanship and the film’s relevance to contemporary issues. The film’s blend of drama and humor, along with its stellar cast, is seen as a strong contender for the top honor. Supporting roles are equally competitive.#academy_awards #one_battle_after_another #sinners #ryan_coogler #paul_thomas_anderson

Conan O'Brien, The 2026 Oscars Interview Conan O’Brien, the man Stephen Colbert dubs “the patron saint of ex-talk show hosts,” is preparing to host the 98th Academy Awards, a gig he’s approached with a mix of obsession and self-deprecation. The comedian, now 62, has spent months refining his material for the event, delivering a surprise set at Largo, a Los Angeles comedy club, to test his jokes with live audiences. Each performance is followed by a day of writer sessions, as O’Brien and his team debate what resonates with the industry crowd versus the TV audience. “I get obsessive,” he admits. “I want to turn it off, but I can’t. That’s not always a fun ride, but that’s the deal.” O’Brien’s first Oscar hosting stint in 2025 was well-received, prompting him to return for an encore. His approach to the role is both a professional challenge and a personal test. “It’s like this little baby bird that I’m cradling,” he says, gesturing as if to shield his jokes from his own relentless edits. Despite his meticulous preparation, O’Brien acknowledges the inherent risks of live television. “Any live telecast is a flirtation with disaster,” he notes. “Electing to run this particular gauntlet could justifiably be interpreted as masochism.” The decision to host the Oscars again comes after a career marked by reinvention. O’Brien retired from late-night TV in 2021, leaving behind a legacy that includes a successful podcast, a $150 million SiriusXM deal, and an Emmy-winning travel show. He’s also taken on roles that defy his earlier image, such as starring opposite Rose Byrne in the dramedy If I Had Legs I’d Kick You. Despite his public persona of self-deprecation, O’Brien’s peers and family admire his work ethic and personal integrity.#conan_obrien #los_angeles #academy_awards #stephen_colbert #jeff_ross

Andy Richter to Host TikTok Live During Conan O'Brien's Oscars Ceremony Conan O’Brien’s return as host of the 98th Academy Awards will feature a familiar face from his long-standing comedy partnership. Andy Richter, O’Brien’s longtime sidekick and collaborator, will play a key role during the ceremony by hosting a special TikTok Live stream for ABC. The event will provide fans with a behind-the-scenes look at the Oscars, offering a unique perspective alongside the main televised broadcast. Richter’s involvement marks a reunion with ABC, where he became a fan favorite during his recent season of Dancing with the Stars. Though he didn’t always secure the highest scores, his charm and humor left a lasting impression on judges and viewers. This time, his role will be more about spontaneity than competition. Hosting a TikTok Live from backstage aligns with Richter’s improvisational style, allowing him to roam the Oscars venue, engage with nominees, presenters, and celebrities, and share quick, unscripted moments with the audience. The idea of incorporating a sidekick into the Oscars isn’t new. During Jimmy Kimmel’s four hosting stints, his on-air partner Guillermo Rodriguez often appeared on the show, participating in segments and conducting red carpet interviews. While Richter’s role won’t involve tequila shots with winners, his presence is expected to add a lighthearted, nostalgic element to the event. For fans of O’Brien and Richter’s late-night chemistry, the reunion is a highlight of this year’s ceremony. The duo’s partnership, which began on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and continued on The Tonight Show and the TBS series Conan, remains a cornerstone of their careers.#conan_obrien #abc #academy_awards #andy_richter #dancing_with_the_stars

Andy Richter to host TikTok Live at Oscars backstage this Sunday Andy Richter will take to the backstage of the 98th Academy Awards this Sunday, offering fans an exclusive behind-the-scenes look through a TikTok Live stream for ABC. The legendary comedian, known for his long-standing partnership with Conan O’Brien, will provide real-time access to the event, capturing candid moments that won’t be shown on television. The surprise reunion of the duo, who previously worked together on Late Night, The Tonight Show, and Conan, marks a nostalgic return to their iconic late-night chemistry. The event, scheduled for March 15, 2026, at 7 PM ET/4 PM PT, will see Conan O’Brien hosting the Oscars for the second time. Richter’s role as a backstage correspondent will be streamed exclusively via TikTok, giving viewers a unique perspective on the festivities. The duo announced the collaboration through a humorous Instagram post featuring their signature banter, with Richter joking about his lack of direction and O’Brien quipping about the inevitability of the night’s chaos. This lighthearted exchange reflects the dynamic that made their partnership a fan favorite over the years. Richter’s career as O’Brien’s sidekick spanned nearly two decades, beginning with Late Night with Conan O’Brien in 1993. His quick wit, improvisational flair, and willingness to be the butt of jokes became defining traits of their on-air chemistry. Though they no longer share a daily partnership, the two remain close friends, frequently collaborating on O’Brien’s podcast Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend and attending events like the Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize ceremony. For this Oscars appearance, Richter’s improvisational style will take center stage.#conan_o_brien #kennedy_center #tiktok #academy_awards #andy_richter

Wolfgang Puck Will Serve A-Listers at the 2026 Oscars Afterparty Wolfgang Puck, the renowned celebrity chef, is set to host a lavish feast for Hollywood’s elite at the 98th Academy Awards Governors Ball, marking his 32nd consecutive year catering the event. The menu, designed to showcase global cuisines and blend comfort with creativity, will feature over 70 dishes for 1,500 A-list attendees. Puck emphasized the importance of quality ingredients and simplicity, stating, “It’s all about the quality of the ingredients and the quality of the dishes. We have to cook for 1,500 people. We keep it simple. We don’t need 10 sauces with it.” The menu includes a mix of classic favorites and whimsical touches, such as chicken pot pie, smoked salmon pizza, macaroni and cheese, and mini Wagyu burgers. To add a playful element, guests will encounter an Italian gelato machine crafting fresh ice cream, a station where 24-karat gold is sprayed onto miniature chocolate Oscars, and a live izakaya offering traditional Japanese bites. Puck’s approach balances indulgence with restraint, ensuring each plate maintains an underlying simplicity. The scale of the operation is staggering. Puck’s team consists of 75 savory chefs, 45 pastry chefs, and 325 front-of-house staff, working together to prepare thousands of servings. The kitchen will churn out 600 homemade pizzas, 3,000 artichoke agnolotti, and 2,000 mini chocolate Oscars, alongside tens of thousands of individual dishes. The event will require an estimated 200 pounds of dry-aged ribeye, 300 pounds of house-smoked salmon, 30 pounds of Kaluga caviar, 500 pounds of wild mushrooms, 200 pounds of Nishiki rice, and 400 pounds of cheeses. Additionally, approximately two gallons of 24-karat liquid gold will be used to adorn the chocolate Oscars.#academy_awards #governors_ball #wolfgang_puck #lash_fary #distinctive_assets

Richard Roeper’s 2026 Oscars predictions are here The 98th annual Academy Awards are set to take place on March 15, with Richard Roeper offering his insights into the most anticipated night in show business. The ceremony, which will air on ABC and be live-streamed on Hulu, promises a mix of surprises and established favorites. Roeper outlines his expectations for key categories, including acting honors and best picture, while also highlighting notable trends and developments in the awards process. This year’s Oscars have already made history, with “Sinners” securing the record for the most nominations at 16, surpassing previous records held by “All About Eve” (1950), “Titanic” (1997), and “La La Land” (2016). The addition of a new category, best achievement in casting, marks a significant shift in the Academy’s approach to recognition. Voting for the 2026 Oscars closed on February 26, with many members casting ballots in the final days. This timing could influence outcomes, as momentum from earlier awards like the Producers Guild and Actor Awards often plays a role, particularly given that actors make up the largest voting bloc. Several nominees have strong ties to Chicago, including supporting actress Amy Madigan. A native of the city, Madigan grew up in South Shore and graduated from Aquinas High School. Her father, John Madigan, was a prominent journalist at WBBM-Newsradio and CBS-2 Chicago. Madigan also starred in the beloved Chicago-area comedy “Uncle Buck,” where her portrayal of Chanice Kobolowski earned widespread acclaim. Her performance in “Weapons” has positioned her as a top contender for the supporting actress award. The Oscars have also become a focal point for betting, with platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel offering wagers in some states.#richard_roeper #academy_awards #amy_madigan #one_battle_after_another #sinners